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Tragedy and Determination: 'Dead Space: Liberation' Review

The men of the “Dead Space” universe have a rough go of things. For poor Isaac, we saw how he wrestled with guilt over convincing Nicole to take a position on the Ishimura. As the events of “Dead Space 2″ unfolded, we saw how the Marker used both Nicole’s memory and this guilt to manipulate Isaac, because that’s, like, what the Marker does. From the early moments in “Dead Space 3″ we see that John Carver, too, has something weighing on his conscience. While he tersely tells Isaac his family is dead, it is readily apparent that there is more to the story, which the game explores through a series of optional co-op missions; however there are several questions floating around about why Carver is so set on the mission and how he knows Ellie and Norton.

“Dead Space: Liberation” takes place a short time before the events of “Dead Space 3″ and lays out the tragic history of Carver and without spoiling anything, “tragic” is the word for it. As I’ve mentioned in the past, the written world of “Dead Space” is one of the best in the industry. Along with the books, the graphic novels do exactly what expanded universes should do, which is bolster the main lore by examining events which occurred off-screen. They provide just enough background information that those who have read them have more insight into the world of the game, but those who haven’t aren’t utterly clueless.

The story begins on a planet called Uxor, which is home to the Red Marker, along with an EarthGov populace. After a mysterious attack which exposes the Marker and its dangerous powers, John Carver finds himself in the midst of a mission of vital importance. The story moves at a very quick pace, which is occasionally detrimental. As soon as the Marker is exposed, we are introduced to a slew of characters in short order, including a Unitologist who also appears in-game. Unfortunately, we aren’t given much by way of backstory or even introduction for these characters, leaving us with a few too many questions. Questions, I might add, that are not all answered in-game.

Ian Edington treats Carver well, helping to flesh him out more than what we see in the game. From Carver’s co-op missions in-game, we can see he’s not the most likable of people, and “Dead Space: Liberation” support this while also making us sympathize with him. Whatever else he may have done, seeing the early events play out are quite sad and, again, lend additional understanding to those who have read it and played the game.

We also see more of Ellie, and it is refreshing to see a returning character who not only grasps the gravity of the situation at hand, but is also prepared to deal it (unlike, say, Leon S. Kennedy who is always baffled). The strength and resolve of her character is equally refreshing. Ellie’s whereabouts are explained and we see more of her relationship with Norton, who is introduced rather abruptly in-game. Though again, even this proves to be more of a set-up than its own, unique story.

Christopher Shy‘s artwork is what truly sells this not only as a graphic novel, but also as a work of art. Shy’s water-color style lends a dream-like feel to the book which feels right at home in the “Dead Space” universe. The necromorphs themselves have an eerie, nigh-amorphous appearance that gives them a nice nightmare quality.

“Dead Space: Liberation” is a wonderful companion piece to “Dead Space 3,” though it is definitely geared towards those with more than a passing interest in the lore. The story assumes that you understand much of the basics of the universe and merely serves to give you a deeper glimpse into Carver and Ellie, and why they are now looking for Isaac. Having said that, if you’re a fan of “Dead Space,” “Dead Space: Liberation” is a beautiful graphic novel that adds a welcome layer to Carver’s character.

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